Henry Joseph Bode Jr., 90, formerly of Oak Park/River Forest, died peacefully in his home at Plymouth Place in LaGrange Park on Jan. 27, 2025. He was a brilliant man of deep faith who valued his family, friends, and fitness. Born in Boston on March 15, 1934, to Henry Joseph Sr. and Helen Steinmuller Bode, he was raised in Rhode Island by a multigenerational family who recognized his talents and made sure his education not only included academics and athletics, but music and art lessons. After two years at East Providence High School, he received a scholarship to St. George Preparatory School, Newport, Rhode Island, where he excelled in his studies, lettered in football and wrestling, played trumpet, and earned the Thayer Cup sportsmanship award. Upon graduation, he received the McCabe Scholarship to Swarthmore College, where he was captain of the wrestling team and was a member of the Delta Upsilon fraternity. He graduated in 1955 with a degree in Mechanical Engineering, receiving the “Engineer of the Year” award.
Hank was the husband of Susan Cartland-Bode, his wife and best friend for 40 years; the father of Mark (Karen), David (Julie) and Lincoln (Gail); stepfather to Susan’s children, Mark Cartland (Jonna Justiniano) and Mary Cartland Schohl; grandfather of Christopher Bode, Alexander Bode (Leah), Camille Parizek (Joey), Elizabeth Bode, Kate Wilutis (Michael), Megan Bode (Jesus Popoca), Kevin Bode (Christine), Amber Bode, Annie McCool (Blake), and Natalie Schohl; great-grandfather to Logan Henry and Payton Wilutis; former husband of Sara Giddings Bode; and is survived by numerous cousins, nieces and nephews, and friends around the world.
Arrangements were handled by Woodlawn Funeral Home & Memorial Park.
